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Indigenous Trees of South Africa

Jan 21, 2019 | Trees for Sale

The Benefits of Planting Trees Indigenous to South Africa

Horticulture boffins have long known the secret to a flourishing garden – assessing your home’s micro-environment, and cultivating the plants that fit in. Tropical plants, for example, will certainly not be fond of snow, just as a cactus will not fare well if overwatered. This in-depth knowledge of plants and your garden’s own biome takes a bit of research, but one of the easiest ways to ensure your yard blooms with ease is by making use of indigenous plants. -

There are several perks to planting trees that are indigenous to South Africa, including some that not only save the environment, but your money too. Below we discuss some of these advantages in more detail.

Preserving a Proudly South African Heritage

Indigenous (sometimes called “native”) trees promote South Africa’s diverse heritage. Home to more than 22 000 native seed plants, South Africa boasts a broad range of fauna and flora in a biodiversity completely unique to the country. Planting indigenous trees not only contributes positively to our environment, but keeps an appreciation for our natural heritage alive for generations to come.

Saving Money on Fertilisers

Native trees are extremely well-adapted to our local climate and soil because they have developed in this soil over the years. While exotic plants may need extra soil nutrients and fertilisers, indigenous trees thrive in their natural habitat with little to no need for assistance.

Sparing the Environment from Toxic Chemicals

As mentioned above, South Africa’s native trees are far more adept at flourishing in their own backyard. Developing in this climate and ecosystem means that they are less susceptible to fungal attacks, disease, hungry insects, or any other types of pests – a factor that saves any gardener on pesticides and similar chemicals that may put the immediate environment at risk.

Creating an Ecosystem That Works

Alien plant life will never be quite as comfortable on South African turf as our indigenous trees. Local animals, birds, and insects are all accustomed and adapted to the type of food, shelter, and sustenance that indigenous trees provide. Introducing one to your garden means you will not disrupt the biodiversity already in existence. Planting an indigenous tree might attract even more local bird and insect species to your garden, depending upon the type of tree you plant.

A Far More Water Wise Option

South Africa often faces drought-like conditions, and most gardeners prefer to keep away from what is known in the botany community as “water guzzlers”. Water guzzlers are foreign plants that tend to need far more water than the South African climate can naturally afford, making these plants an expensive decision. In order to keep your surrounding plants well-hydrated, save the country’s water, and spare yourself the hefty water bill, you might want to consider planting an indigenous tree

In a nutshell, planting an indigenous tree promotes our natural biodiversity, keeps our local environment safe, and saves you money in the long run. If you are interested in indigenous trees for your garden, visit Windy Willows today for some wonderful deals on our trees for sale.